Congratulations on your decision to move to Austin, Texas! Known for its vibrant culture, thriving music scene, and endless opportunities for outdoor activities, Austin has become a popular destination for people from all over the country. 

Whether you’re moving for work, family, or simply a change of scenery, this guide will help you navigate the ins and outs of your new home.

Getting to Know Austin

Austin is the capital city of Texas and has a population of over 1 million people. The city is located in Central Texas and is surrounded by rolling hills, lakes, and rivers. The climate is warm and sunny, with hot summers and mild winters.

One of the things that makes Austin unique is its eclectic culture. The city is home to many artists, musicians, and writers, as well as a diverse population of people from all walks of life. The music scene is particularly noteworthy, with many famous musicians, such as Willie Nelson, calling Austin home.

Another thing that sets Austin apart is its commitment to sustainability and green living. The city is known for its bike lanes, public transportation, and many parks and green spaces.

Cost of Living

One of the first things you’ll want to consider when moving to Austin is the cost of living. While Austin is relatively affordable compared to other major cities in the United States, it’s important to be aware of the expenses you’ll face.

Housing: The cost of housing in Austin has increased in recent years due to the city’s growing popularity. While there are still affordable options available, be prepared to pay more than you might in other parts of Texas.

Food: Austin is known for its diverse culinary scene, but eating out can add up quickly. However, there are also many affordable options, such as food trucks and local markets.

Transportation: While Austin has a public transportation system, it’s not as extensive as other cities. Many residents opt to use their own cars or bikes to get around.

Utilities: The cost of utilities in Austin is relatively low, with the average monthly bill being around $150.

Entertainment: Austin offers a wide variety of entertainment options, from live music to outdoor activities. While some events may be expensive, many are free or low-cost.

Neighborhoods

Austin has many different neighborhoods, each with its own unique vibe and personality. When you’re choosing a neighborhood, make sure to keep your individual goals in mind. We also recommend using a one-way cargo trailer for the move down here. This way you can dump the trailer in Austin when you arrive.

Here are some of the most popular neighborhoods to consider:

Downtown: If you’re looking for a vibrant city center with lots of restaurants, bars, and entertainment options, downtown Austin is a great option.

South Congress: South Congress, or SoCo, is known for its funky boutiques, food trucks, and eclectic vibe.

East Austin: East Austin is a rapidly growing area with many new developments and trendy restaurants.

South Austin: South Austin is a more laid-back area with a strong community feel and plenty of outdoor spaces.

North Austin: North Austin is a more suburban area with easy access to major highways and shopping centers.

Education

If you have children, education is likely to be a top priority when considering a move to Austin. The city has a number of highly-rated public and private schools, as well as many prestigious colleges and universities.

Austin Independent School District: The Austin Independent School District is the largest school district in Austin, serving over 80,000 students. The district has a variety of programs and schools to choose from, including magnet schools, dual-language programs, and International Baccalaureate programs.

Private Schools: Austin is home to many highly-regarded private schools, including St. Andrew’s Episcopal School, Regents School of Austin, and St. Gabriel’s Catholic School.

Colleges and Universities: Austin is also known for its higher education opportunities. 

The city is home to the University of Texas at Austin, one of the largest universities in the country, as well as many other colleges and universities, including St. Edward’s University and Austin Community College.

Jobs and Economy

Austin has a strong economy and is known for its technology and business sectors. Many major companies have headquarters or major operations in Austin, including Dell, IBM, and Amazon. 

The city is also home to a thriving startup scene, with many entrepreneurs choosing to launch their businesses in Austin.

The unemployment rate in Austin is lower than the national average, and the city has a relatively high median household income. However, it’s important to note that the cost of living in Austin has increased in recent years, which may impact your ability to save money.

Getting Around

Moving a long distance is even more daunting if you’re not sure about transportation. If you drive, you don’t have to worry but you might be more interested in public transport. 

As mentioned earlier, Austin’s public transportation system is not as extensive as other cities, so many residents opt to use their own cars or bikes to get around. However, there are also many ride-sharing options available, such as Uber and Lyft.

If you’re planning to drive in Austin, be prepared for some traffic. The city’s growing population has led to increased congestion, particularly during rush hour. However, many locals find that it’s still relatively easy to get around if you plan your routes strategically.

If you prefer to bike, Austin has a number of bike lanes and paths, as well as a bike-sharing program called Austin B-cycle. Walking is also a popular option, particularly in downtown areas.

Things to Do

One of the best things about living in Austin is that there’s always something to do. Whether you’re interested in music, food, or outdoor activities, there’s something for everyone.

Music: Austin is known as the live music capital of the world, and for good reason. The city has a vibrant music scene, with live performances happening every night of the week. Some of the most popular venues include the Continental Club, Antone’s, and Stubb’s BBQ.

Food: Austin is also known for its diverse culinary scene, with options ranging from food trucks to fine dining restaurants. Some of the most popular cuisines include Tex-Mex, barbecue, and fusion.

Outdoor Activities: With its sunny climate and abundance of parks and green spaces, Austin is the perfect place for outdoor enthusiasts. 

Popular activities include hiking, kayaking, and swimming in the many lakes and rivers in the area.

Arts and Culture: Austin has a thriving arts and culture scene, with many museums, galleries, and theaters to explore. 

The Blanton Museum of Art, the Paramount Theatre, and the Mexic-Arte Museum are just a few examples.

Selling Your Home? 

If you are planning on selling your home and moving, consider using a moving app, Agoyu can help you find and compare the price of movers.

You can also use our partner ARC Relocations preferred real estate network to save thousands of dollars on real estate commissions when selling your house.

They offer the best rebate in the industry to help save you money on your move to Austin. 

Final Thoughts

Moving to Austin, Texas is an exciting decision that offers many opportunities for growth, exploration, and fun. 

While there are some challenges to be aware of, such as the cost of living and traffic, the city’s vibrant culture, strong economy, and endless entertainment options make it a great place to call home.

As you prepare for your move, take the time to research neighborhoods, schools, and job opportunities, and don’t be afraid to ask for advice from locals or other people who have made the move to Austin. 

Don’t forget that the moving company you hire is incredibly important. The Agoyu app helps ensure you find only the most qualified and lowest priced movers in your local area. Give the Agoyu app a try today and connect with the best movers to help get you to your dream city. 

With a little bit of planning and preparation, you’ll be ready to start your new life in the heart of Texas.